How to Get a DBA Name For an LLC in Minnesota – An Easy Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Steve runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Get a DBA Name in Minnesota

Are you looking to establish a business in Minnesota and need to get a DBA (Doing Business As) name for your venture? You’re in the right place! A DBA, also known as a Trade Name, Fictitious Name, or Assumed Name, allows you to conduct business under a name that’s different from your legal business name. This can be advantageous for branding, marketing, and overall business operations.

In Minnesota, if you’re willing to use a different name other than the legal name for your business, you must file the DBA (Doing Business As). The public (specifically your potential customers) knows your business by its registered legal name. Instead of using your formal business name, you may use the trade name or DBA in marketing and sales to reach a wider audience.

Minnesota, popularly known as The North Star State, has some regulations when it comes to filing your DBA name. However, the regulations can vary depending on the type of business structure you have. In this article, I will share the basic steps to get a DBA Name in Minnesota.

What is DBA Name in Minnesota?

Whenever you form an LLC or any business structure, you must get a name for it. Every company has a legitimate name. For instance, a partnership or sole proprietorship might function under the legal name of the company’s owner or owners. The name specified in the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization may be used by any business entity, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and others.

However, there are situations when you may decide against using your company’s registered legal name in Minnesota. This is due to a variety of factors. For instance, the legal name of your company can be unrelated to it or no longer accurately describe it. Or perhaps you want a new name without altering your documentation for incorporation or registration.

If you intend to run your business in Minnesota under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must submit a DBA name with Minnesota state regardless of the type of business entity you have incorporated as (single proprietor, partnership, corporation, or LLC).

No restrictions exist on how many DBA names you can use to do business. However, each DBA name must be filed with the state where you conduct business. This is necessary because the general public has a legal right to know whether a specific individual or company is operating under a name other than their legal name.

In Minnesota, changing your business name is a risky factor. It can bring positive and negative effects on your business. Hence, before you file and change your legal business name, analyze all the risks and advantages.

–LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to Get a DBA in Minnesota

To get a DBA in Minnesota, you must first check if any other business is already using the name before filing a DBA in Minnesota. You can then submit the Minnesota business name reservation form after it has been confirmed that no other company is already using the chosen name. You can search the Minnesota Government Records Inquiry System and confirm that the name you chose is not already in use. However, getting a DBA is not mandatory in many states. If you open an LLC in Minnesota, you must check with Minnesota Secretary of State whether you need to file DBA or not.

Guideline for choosing a DBA name

You must choose a name to register, which is the crucial step. There are a few straightforward LLC name guidelines to follow (if you’re forming an LLC) while choosing a name in Minnesota.

  • In Minnesota, fictional names cannot be the same or similar to one another. A DBA cannot deceive the public by appearing to be confusingly similar to any other business name.
  • Unless the company has been incorporated as an LLC or corporation, a DBA name cannot contain a corporate indication, such as Corp or LLC, or any other words that imply an entity type. This will stop a lone proprietor from passing for a legitimate corporation.
  • Any banking-related words without a letter from the Minnesota Banking Commissioner’s Office, or any insurance-related words without a letter from the Minnesota Minnesota Department of Commerce, Insurance Division.
  • Any words that could confuse your corporation with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
  • A professional designation in the name (i.e., engineering, attorney) without a copy of the license of one officer/member or a letter from the governing agency allowing the use of the name without licensing.
  • Any words that indicate or imply that the corporation is engaged in a business that is not authorized by law to pursue.

How Can You Tell if a DBA Name in Minnesota is available?

Once you have selected a name that complies with the requirements mentioned above, there are a number of methods you can use to find out if the name is open for registration. One simple strategy is to look up other companies in Minnesota with the same name on Google.

It is a simple technique to clear out any already taken names, even though it may not guarantee that the name you want to register is accessible. As it is likely that you will require a website domain that matches your business name, you may also check to see whether the web domain for that name is accessible. For example, you can check Minnesota LLC name search guide to see how you can find the availability of your desired LLC name in Minnesota.

Before you may register your Trade Name in Minnesota, you must have used it for business purposes. Therefore, you must use a Trade Name as soon as possible if you want to register and protect it in Minnesota.

Register the Minnesota DBA Name

Once you have established that the name is available for registration, you must finish the file using the forms your county has provided. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most Minnesota counties, the following fundamental information is needed-

  • Name of the company, its phone number, city, state, and street address
  • The organization type under which the business is incorporated
  • List the partners’ names and addresses (if applicable)
  • Describe the items, services, or business that will be delivered under the Fictitious Name in the registration form
  • Use of the Fictitious Name in the marketplace
  • Both the classification type and number
  • Make a mark (pick Trade Name)
  • Date and state of the first use of the trade name
  • When the Trade Name first appeared in Minnesota
  • Application’s name, title, signature, and date Email address

Submitting the Minnesota DBA Name Application

To file the Minnesota DBA Name, you must apply to the Minnesota Secretary of State. In Minnesota, you can file the DBA name in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing.. The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Minnesota is $50 for online filing and $30 for offline filing.

  • Online filing: For online filing, check the Minnesoota Secreatry of State. There, look for the “Assumed Names” section. You will get the registration form.
  • Offline filing: For filing offline, you must send the downloaded PDF form or drop it off in person at the Minnesota Secretary of State – Business Services, Retirement Systems of Minnesota Building, 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, St Paul, MN 55103

Using the Minnesota Trade Name

Three “specimens” demonstrating the Trade Name used must be submitted to Minnesota Secretary of State. The following are some instances of acceptable specimens:

  • Business cards
  • Booklets,
  • Flyers,
  • Labels, and
  • Stickers

How to Renew a Trade Name in Minnesota

You can renew your DBA name after a stipulated time. In most states, the renewal of the DBA name follows the same process as filing a fresh DBA name. You need to get the DBA renewal form, fill it up with the correct information, and submit it to the state online or offline. The renew time for DBA name filing is one year in Minnesota.

How to Change a Trade Name

You can change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name) by applying to the Minnesota SOS. The process is similar. You can search for the name you want to have after changing the old Trade Name. If the name is available, make sure it follows other guidelines. You can reserve your DBA name for one year; after then, you can change or renew your DBA if needed through the Minnesota SOS.

FAQs

What is a DBA name?
A DBA name is a “doing business as” name, which is a legal term used to denote a name that a person or business uses for trade or business purposes that is different from their legal name.
What is the process for registering a DBA name in Minnesota?
The process for registering a DBA name in Minnesota is relatively straightforward. It includes registering with the Minnesota Secretary of State, obtaining a Minnesota Tax Identification Number, and filing a Fictitious Name Certificate.
Is there a fee to register a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, there is a fee of $35 to register a DBA name in Minnesota.
How long does it take to register a DBA name in Minnesota?
The process of registering a DBA name in Minnesota typically takes 4-6 weeks.
Is it possible to register a DBA name online in Minnesota?
Yes, it is possible to register a DBA name online in Minnesota.
Are there any restrictions on the name I can choose for my DBA in Minnesota?
Yes, there are several restrictions on the name you can choose for your DBA in Minnesota, including that the name must not be the same as a name already in use, the name must not be deceptive, and the name must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Do I need to file any paperwork if I am a sole proprietor registering a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, if you are a sole proprietor registering a DBA name in Minnesota, you will need to file a Fictitious Name Certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Do I need a Minnesota Tax Identification Number to register a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you will need to obtain a Minnesota Tax Identification Number to register a DBA name in Minnesota.
How do I obtain a Minnesota Tax Identification Number?
To obtain a Minnesota Tax Identification Number, you will need to file Form M-13 with the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Are there any advantages to registering a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, registering a DBA name in Minnesota can be beneficial as it can help you establish credibility with customers, vendors, banks, and other entities.
Is there a process for renewing a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, DBA names in Minnesota need to be renewed every 5 years. The process for renewing a DBA name in Minnesota is the same as the process for registering a new DBA name.
Can I register a DBA name in Minnesota if I do not live in the state?
Yes, it is possible to register a DBA name in Minnesota even if you do not live in the state.
Do I need to use my DBA name on all documents in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to use your DBA name on all documents in Minnesota. However, you should use your DBA name on any legal documents or documents intended for public viewing.
How long is a DBA name valid in Minnesota?
A DBA name is valid in Minnesota for 5 years after the date of registration, after which it must be renewed.
Is it possible to change the name of my DBA in Minnesota?
Yes, it is possible to change the name of your DBA in Minnesota. However, you will need to file a new Fictitious Name Certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Is there a way to check if a specific name is available for my DBA in Minnesota?
Yes, you can check if a specific name is available for your DBA in Minnesota by conducting a name search on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
What happens if I fail to renew my DBA name in Minnesota?
If you fail to renew your DBA name in Minnesota, your DBA name will become invalid and you will need to re-register the name.
Is it possible to register a DBA name on behalf of someone else in Minnesota?
Yes, it is possible to register a DBA name on behalf of someone else in Minnesota. However, you will need to provide a signed authorization from the person for whom you are registering the DBA name.
What is the process for cancelling a DBA name in Minnesota?
The process for cancelling a DBA name in Minnesota is the same as the process for registering a new DBA name. You will need to file a Fictitious Name Certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State and indicate that you are canceling the DBA name.
Is there a deadline for registering a DBA name in Minnesota?
No, there is no deadline for registering a DBA name in Minnesota.
Are there any additional forms I need to submit in order to register a DBA name in Minnesota?
No, the only form you need to submit in order to register a DBA name in Minnesota is a Fictitious Name Certificate.
Is a DBA name the same as an LLC or corporation in Minnesota?
No, a DBA name is not the same as an LLC or corporation in Minnesota. A DBA name is a separate entity from an LLC or corporation.
Do I need to file my DBA name with the county in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to file your DBA name with the county in Minnesota. You only need to file your DBA name with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
How do I find out if a DBA name is available in Minnesota?
To find out if a DBA name is available in Minnesota, you can conduct a name search on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
Is it necessary to use the term “DBA” when I use my DBA name in Minnesota?
No, it is not necessary to use the term “DBA” when you use your DBA name in Minnesota. However, you should use the term “DBA” when you use your DBA name on any legal documents or documents intended for public viewing.
Do I need to use my DBA name on all business correspondence in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to use your DBA name on all business correspondence in Minnesota. However, you should use your DBA name on any legal documents or documents intended for public viewing.
How long does it take for the Minnesota Secretary of State to process a DBA name registration?
The Minnesota Secretary of State typically processes DBA name registrations within 2-3 weeks.
Is it necessary to advertise my DBA name in Minnesota?
No, it is not necessary to advertise your DBA name in Minnesota. However, you should use your DBA name on any legal documents or documents intended for public viewing.
Do I need to register my DBA name in other states if I am conducting business in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to register your DBA name in other states if you are conducting business in Minnesota. However, you may want to register your DBA name in other states if you are conducting business in those states as well.
What is the process for filing a DBA Name in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, a DBA name must be registered with the Secretary of State’s office. The application can be completed online or in-person. It is also necessary to file a DBA “doing business as” statement with the county in which the business is located.
What is the cost of filing a DBA Name in Minnesota?
The filing fee for a Minnesota DBA name is $50. Additional fees may apply depending on the county in which the business is located.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in Minnesota?
The processing time for a Minnesota DBA name is typically 5-7 business days.
Do I need to file a DBA Name in Minnesota if I have a LLC?
If you are registering a limited liability company in Minnesota, you may choose to register a DBA name as well. Doing so will allow you to operate your business under a different name from your LLC name.
Is it necessary to renew a DBA Name in Minnesota?
A DBA name does not need to be renewed in Minnesota and does not expire.

Also Read

Why Minnesota DBA Filing is So Important

One of the primary reasons why Minnesota DBA filing is so important is to establish and protect your business’s identity. By registering a DBA name with the state, you not only ensure that your chosen business name is unique and not already in use but also provide a level of legal protection for your brand. This can help prevent other businesses from using a similar name and potentially causing confusion among customers.

Additionally, having a registered DBA name can help build credibility and trust with customers and partners. It shows that your business is legitimate and operating in compliance with state regulations. This can be especially important for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the Minnesota market and attract new customers.

For businesses operating in multiple states, having a DBA filing in Minnesota can also help streamline operations and ensure compliance with state laws. By registering your DBA name in each state where you do business, you can avoid potential legal issues and fines for operating without the proper documentation.

Furthermore, having a registered DBA name can make it easier for your business to access certain benefits and opportunities. For example, some banks may require a DBA name to open a business bank account, and certain vendors or partners may request proof of a registered DBA name before entering into a business relationship. By having your Minnesota DBA filing in order, you can ensure that your business is ready to take advantage of various opportunities that may arise.

In conclusion, Minnesota DBA filing is an essential step for any business looking to establish a strong presence in the state and protect its brand identity. By complying with state regulations and registering your DBA name, you can build credibility with customers, protect your brand, and ensure that your business is operating in compliance with state laws. Don’t overlook the importance of Minnesota DBA filing – it could make all the difference for your business’s success.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Minnesota is the best way to update your business name. Unlike the registered legal business name, you can have as many as DBA names. You can use your new assumed name as soon as the state has processed your filing, and getting one is a rather simple process. Whether you have an LLC or any other business structure, filing a DBA name is helpful for your business upgradation anytime.

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